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12/03/2010 09:17:57
topic: GEMS Schools

SmokeySeven
Posts 1756
RachA, Of course for profit schools are driven by the bottom line (profit) they would not be operating other wise! LOL

What I think you mean is that some for profit schools are lucky enough to have some one who understands education at the helm and whilst wants to make profit probably due to return on investments doesn’t want to bleed the school dry. Therefore the rate of profit taken or expected to be taken from a school would be important.

I don’t know of many schools in the UK that are profit driven and that says an awful lot. When you have a profit driven school you don’t have an impartial board of governors working for the good of the school you have them making decisions as to where more profit can be sourced.

Having now attended a for profit school I would never ever make that choice again, albeit granted that within Dubai there is little choice in the matter.

Don’t forget the franchise schools in your equations as well, just to add another dimension. Franchised schools have to pay for use of a name/connection out of their fees and normally make enough profit for both sets of shareholders.


RachA, could not agree more about transparency.......not likely here i feel!
12/03/2010 09:16:50
topic: Facials that gives a Glow

wikkid
Posts 1661
do a search on this forum for galvanic and give my friend leigh a call. Theyre awesome!
12/03/2010 09:16:40
topic: BA threaten Easter strike

Mlo
Posts 178
Chizz, I am sorry you had such a bad fight. Bad food, no entertaiment etc,It is disgusting I know, gone are the days where BA was just so amazing. It makes the job for us crew very difficult, we just don't have the right tools anymore to do the job.
No excuse for the rudness of crew though, I know that the moral is just not there because of what is going on, can't really comment on that as I am not at work a lot.
12/03/2010 09:14:08
topic: What colour shoes can you wear with a white dress?

wikkid
Posts 1661
SmokeySeven wrote:
wikkid wrote:
depends what colour underwear youre wearing

sorry, am at the airport and bored and couldnt resist!


So you can go barefoot? LOL


haha! Good one i take it you werent out on the tiles last night Big Grin
12/03/2010 09:08:50
topic: Adult Learning in dubai - GCSEs

yogi bear
Posts 22
Chica1

I may know somebody who used to teach GCSEs and A'levels, please email me and l will put you in contact with them. My address is Tfraser06atgmaildotcom. Please de;ete this post once you have read it.
12/03/2010 09:08:02
topic: Does anyone else think American Idol stinks this year?

Doodles
Posts 73
Clearly not a popular opinion, but I LOVE IT!! maybe it's just the escapism from the norm but I won't miss an episode. Agree about the adverts, I record it and watch something else for the first half hour, then start watching and fastward through the adds, byt the time the end of the show comes I've cought up with real time.

Must say again - I LOVE IT!!
12/03/2010 09:06:22
topic: Looking for a maid urgently!

Bunkie
Posts 90
Hi - does anyone know of an experienced full-time Filipina maid who is looking for work. I desperately need someone to start ASAP.
Please contact me if you can help me.

Thank you!!!
12/03/2010 09:05:46
topic: What colour shoes can you wear with a white dress?

SmokeySeven
Posts 1756
wikkid wrote:
depends what colour underwear youre wearing

sorry, am at the airport and bored and couldnt resist!


So you can go barefoot? LOL
12/03/2010 09:04:31
topic: Facials that gives a Glow

vera
Posts 393
I'm looking for a facial that will give your skin a glow.
I've done microdermabrasion recently and my skin looks quite dull. I think it's dehydrated. Somewher they splash on lots of hydration serums and massage it into the skin would be ideal.
Dermalogica doesn't really do that for me, so something else.
12/03/2010 09:03:46
topic: Update on my nightmare situation (putting it mildly)

Torfaerie
Posts 355
Sorry for not responding sooner -

Shagdash - that is such a sweet and lovely offer - thank you so much : ) I will probably be ok as not long before I go back to UK. I'm welling up at the kindness! Thank you. Yes, faith in human nature restored!!

Crystil - you are absolutely right, if I do come back I will be much wiser to for it.

Thank you Anna22 for your kind words. I WILL come through it! Hopefully will be posting a more positive story in the near future!

Thank you ladies for all the supportive posts x
12/03/2010 09:03:18
topic: Gordon Ramsay & Maze?

RachelA
Posts 1761
lulubaker I hope you're going for lunch and not for dinner!
12/03/2010 09:02:51
topic: What colour shoes can you wear with a white dress?

wikkid
Posts 1661
depends what colour underwear youre wearing

sorry, am at the airport and bored and couldnt resist!
12/03/2010 09:01:25
topic: John Venebales charged with child P*rn

SmokeySeven
Posts 1756
sandfly wrote:
Smokey, if a defence is successfully used - it isn't murder, is it??

As I said, there is discretion in terms of the period served, but there is a mandatory life sentence, or there was when I was at law school. Which means that throughout the person's life, they can be brought back to prison in the way JV was.

The periods you are talking about are, afaik, the recommended minimum time to be served, which is a note to a sentence and not an actual sentence

And my whole argument was that this (variety) is a GOOD thing. Rather than what I took to be your proposal, that all murderers lose all human rights for ever. If that isn't what you were suggesting, could you clarify exactly what it was?


SF you are making incredible assumptions and still continuing with irrelevant discussions. You are the one who brought in other analogies as regards types of murder committed not I or any one else. What you want to have a whole discussion about English law? Where have I stated that all murderers should be imprisoned for life? I have as you quite rightly say, said when you breach the laws of the land and are sentenced by a court of the land you lose your rights, you also lose your right to live life as a normal citizen. I have also suggested that the law of the Uk needs rehauling, but I think this in in progress anyhow as regards the murder crimes as the 1957 act is outdated. You are diverting off topic and inferring stuff I have not said, when it comes to the loss of human rights for life, I think you will find I have said I feel people who commit horrendous atrocities and are involved in paedophilia should face. I do believe there are some acts that are unforgivable and yes life should mean life and no I really don’t care if people who commit such acts are hung or never see the light of day.
12/03/2010 08:56:30
topic: BA threaten Easter strike

Mlo
Posts 178
Moscow forgot to say you are right, it is not up to date or true I just saw it somehow and wanted to have my saying.
Thanks
12/03/2010 08:54:30
topic: BA threaten Easter strike

Mlo
Posts 178
Manufan, if you are going to be rude at least get your facts right before you speak!!!!
You are telling me to show some loyalty and negociate?
Well....that made me laugh, our Union is been doing just that, we have offered to take pay cuts, to freeze our salary and the list goes on what did BA say..'No'.
Our dear Mr Walsh who is doing nothing more than ruin our Company for us and for you the customers is not interested in saving the money, this is all about something else I don't wish to say too much.
When BA turns into the next Easy Jet, because we are already going down that route, I am sure you will be the first one to complain.

Most crew didnt want to strike over Xmas and most crew dont want to strike over Easter!!!!!
Mr Walsh has trained 6000 BA workers to do our job in case of a strike,( did you see the news last night, and what kind of voluntters he is getting, no need to say anymore). He is very prepared for this and probably wants us to go ahead so he can get rid of all of us.

May I just add that most of our bussiness passangers are behind us, not to mention a lot of MPs because they actually understand what is going and where BA is heading now.



Shall I go on?, because the list does go on.
I am sure you have a picture of us crew just saying, yeah lets strike, let me tell you we are all scared we are all stressed and we all want to save this company.
12/03/2010 08:53:44
topic: Private tutors for 6 year old

yogi bear
Posts 22
Hi Barneyboo, l know somebody who may be able to help you. Email me and l will put you in contact with them if you like. Tfraser06atgmaildotcom. Pleaes delete this post when you have read this message.
12/03/2010 08:53:09
topic: Gordon Ramsay & Maze?

lulubaker
Posts 264
I'm going on Sunday, and am really looking forward to it! Will report back......watch this space!
12/03/2010 08:51:30
topic: Friday Brunch in Doha

lulubaker
Posts 264
I second what Rayak said - Ritz Carlton is THE best. Nicest surroundings, best quality of food and impeccable service. Only setback is the price - think it's QR275 and it's the same whether or not you partake of the (unlimited) bubbly, so if you have non-drinkers in your party, they have to pay the same price. Still, if you like a glass or two of fizz, definitely worth it!
Personally, I don't like the Marriott brunch. I've been there a few times over the years, and it used to be great BUT I think it's become SO popular now, they've spoiled it by not limiting the numbers. There are simply too many people there, and you have to queue for AGES at some of the more popular food stations (eg sushi and roast beef!) And as you said GoodMorning, who wants to sit in the lobby? Not me either!
RachelA, I think the Admiral's is breakfast rather than brunch. Haven't tried it, but I'm a big fan of the Admiral's (as you know!) so I'm sure it will be good!
Oh, and I believe the Ramada are now running their Friday brunch in the new Plaza, in the Ruby Woo/Bombay Balti restaurants. Also with unlimited bubby for QR200 - bargain!
12/03/2010 08:50:55
topic: What colour shoes can you wear with a white dress?

vera
Posts 393
It really depends on the style of the dress. If it's a funky sharp cut. Brighter colour like bright pink or turqouise coul work.
If it's an elegant dress, gold or naturall white with brown leather details looks good.
Silver is quite safe if it's a nice shoe.
Black is a bit too much of a clash.
And you don't need to match shoes, handbags, accesories.
If you for example pick the silver shoes it can look good with a bright pink or turquoise hand bag, while bright pink hand bag and shoes could look over the top.
I don't think it's any rules in dressing. Just try all your options on and pick what's easiest on the eye. You can even take some pictures of yourself.
Make sure your hair and make-up is perfect and no one will notice if you picked the wrong shoes
Have fun!
edited by vera on 12/03/2010
12/03/2010 08:47:49
topic: My head is minging

Sanddy_Dogg
Posts 749
Oooh! Baileys is a guaranteed headache maker for me
12/03/2010 08:47:05
topic: Hello- new to this board and Dubai- a few questions on housing, schools and life in general

Sanddy_Dogg
Posts 749
I've lived in The Lakes for over 4 years and love it. The Meadows houses are also in The Lakes in the Deemas and Maeens 1, 2, and 5. The villas (detached houses) are 3, 4 and 5 bedroom.

One advantage of the Lakes is two nurseries within the community (although I don't know if they have places). They are both Raffles nurseries. One has been open about a year and the other is due to open next month.

Also within the community is the Lakes Club with bar, restaurant, playground, gym, squash courts, tennis courts ans large kids and adults pools.

In the months when it's cool enough to walk, everywhere is within walking distance within the Lakes.

For IB schools Dubai International Academy (DIA) is right next to The Lakes. My DD is in her 5th year there (Elementary) and is getting on fine as is my year 1 son.



Not sure about American or British clubs but don't restrict yourself; you will meet all nationalities here and can have a circle of friends including many different nationalities - just like EW!
12/03/2010 08:41:59
topic: GEMS Schools

RachelA
Posts 1761
But to be fair, not EVERY for-profit school is driven only by the bottom line. Just like in any other business, there are some that put quality as their driving force. The privately-own, for-profit model is very common in the Middle East and Asia. There are actually quite a few in the UK and the US too, but they are certainly not as common as the not-for-profit model. I have worked in quite a few of these schools, and the quality of education varies a great deal, due in large part to whether the owners are themselves educators and understand what it takes to provide a quality product. There are good and bad in each sector. Parents should do their homework (especially if we are lucky enough to be in a market where we have choices - wouldn't THAT be nice?). Learn about the hiring criteria for teachers, staff satisfaction and retention, class sizes, activities and extras, feedback from other parents - these combined are great indicators if this is a school you might be happy with for your own kids.
12/03/2010 08:41:47
topic: Travelling with kids & baggage on your own

Torfaerie
Posts 355
Would be great if I could put them in baggage and have a relaxing flight watching a film with a G&T!

5yr old is usually very good on flights - watches films and sleeps and I'm always armed with new things to play with. Was just a bit concerned, as he can undo seatbelt, that if there is enough legroom to get past, he would see this as a new experience and go and explore. He also might see it as another attention grabbing thing as I'll have baby on lap. You are right rosierat and meals - threats, bribes etc will have to be used!

Thanks - will book bassinet even if not used by baby. Really dreading this trip!
12/03/2010 08:38:47
topic: My head is minging

apr04
Posts 105
OMG. I'm not a drinker, but last nite had couple of glasses of baileys, and my head is so sore... Never again!
12/03/2010 08:37:52
topic: maid medical question

piper*
Posts 98
Last year we didn't get our maid through an agency. She had come to the end of her contract with another family. We took her documents and ours to the little typing shop next to the visa place on 19th St between 2nd and 24th. They typed up the forms told us what to do and how much to pay! We then had to go and get the medical done, then arrange insurance and then back to get the visa!
I'm not sure about the visit visa, but i'm sure they could tell you
piper
12/03/2010 08:36:48
topic: Expedia

Sanddy_Dogg
Posts 749
I compare prices between Expedia.co.uk and Expedia.com.
I often find the US site is cheaper.

One thing to watch out for is if you book a trip with several airlines you need to look out for who the ticket is charged to.

I booked a trip involving EK and Air Canada. It was all charged to AC and although I had no problems with the booking process o flights, my Skywards miles weren't credited as it wasn't classed as an EK flight. I sent in proof and did get the miles eventually but I wished I'd presented my Skywards card at check-in and saved myself some faffing about.
12/03/2010 08:32:12
topic: Cargo shipment with a little room to share? To West Coast N.A.?

SJY
Posts 63
Friendly bump
12/03/2010 08:31:25
topic: Hello- new to this board and Dubai- a few questions on housing, schools and life in general

SmokeySeven
Posts 1756
Eu sweetheart, you have considered and prepared for the worst case scenario whilst on your sight seeing trip here I hope? I.e. full medical insurance and an understanding of the legalities of delivering a baby here? I just think you should research this as you stated you should not be flying at this time.
12/03/2010 08:28:40
topic: GEMS Schools

domino
Posts 113
As SS stated, not for profit schools invest all of their funds back into the school whereas for profit schools return a portion of their funds to owners/stakeholders. Also, not-for-profit schools are generally more accountable to the parents on how their funds are spent as the parents who pay the school fees are viewed as the stakeholders.
12/03/2010 08:27:44
topic: Washing powder / detergent for baby clothes

lil miss T
Posts 156
I use PUREX BABY liquid for my clothes and my lil man as my skin is really sensitive.
its affordable, available everywhere, smells so fresh, and doesnt irritate my skin or his.
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